[1122] What can one who becomes the lover of
another man's wife say to another man (guilty of the same transgression)?
it is seen, however, that even such a one, when he sees his lady with
another lover, becomes unable to forgive the act.[1123] How can one who,
to draw breath himself think of preventing another by a murderous act,
from doing the same? Whatever wishes one entertains with respect to one's
ownself, one should certainly cherish with respect to another. With the
surplus wealth one may happen to own one should relieve the wants of the
indigent. It is for this reason that the Creator ordained the practice of
increasing one's wealth (by trade or laying it out at interest).[1124]
One should walk alone that path by proceeding along which one may hope to
meet with the deities; or, at such times when wealth is gained, adherence
to the duties of sacrifice and gift is laudable. [1125] The sages have
said that the accomplishment of the objects by means of agreeable
(pacific) means is righteousness. See, O Yudhishthira, that even this is
the criterion that has been kept in view in declaring the indications of
righteousness and iniquity.[1126] In days of old the Creator ordained
righteousness endowing it with the power of holding the world together.
The conduct of the good, that is fraught with excellence, is subjected to
(numerous) restraints for acquiring righteousness which depends upon many
delicate considerations. The indications of righteousness have now been
recounted to thee, O foremost one of Kuru's race! Do not, therefore, at
any time set thy understanding upon any act that is wrong.
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